Venus (Secret Gem)

Towering over you on arrival at 155 Bishopsgate, these massive, wall-mounted bronze torsos were inspired by the Venus de Milo, a recurring motif in Dine’s work ever since a plaster of Paris replica from a gift shop found its way into his studio. Like the famous original, the two perfectly proportioned figures symbolise female fertility, and embody romance and beauty. However, rather than replicating the Venus de Milo’s smooth surface, Dine’s pieces resemble archaeological artefacts, hand worked and rough hewn to convey emotion and vigour. You can almost sense the movement of the tools, the very act of creation. We hope your day is as productive.

One of the most significant artists of his generation, Dine was closely associated with the development of Pop Art and Happenings during the 1960s. He has evolved into an autobiographical artist, creating prints, drawings, paintings and sculptures based on his personal experiences, relationships and possessions. The subject of major retrospective exhibitions and represented in numerous collections worldwide, Dine was the first contemporary artist invited to exhibit at the J. Paul Getty Museum in California.